Vikhyat Gulati's Journey as a Performer

Vikhyat Gulati is making significant strides in the entertainment industry, transitioning seamlessly from stage performances to streaming platforms. He gained recognition for his nuanced portrayal of Johnny Malang in the Netflix series 'Kohrra' and has built a varied portfolio with roles in shows such as 'Tandav', 'Flames', and 'Masaba Masaba'. His training at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York has equipped him with the skills to infuse emotional authenticity into his roles.

Immersing in the Role of Johnny Malang

In 'Kohrra', which features a gritty and realistic narrative, Gulati fully immersed himself in the character of Johnny Malang. He explains, "We aimed to mirror the ongoing discussions in Punjab." To prepare, he watched numerous real-life videos and delved into the social, religious, and political contexts of the region. Understanding Johnny's background as a lower middle-class individual was essential for portraying his struggles and aspirations.

The Audition Process and Role Acquisition

Interestingly, Gulati was involved in the casting process before he auditioned for the role himself. "We auditioned over 100 actors. During a scene rehearsal in Chandigarh, we recorded our performance and submitted it. Later, I received a call informing me that Sudip sir wanted me to portray Johnny. I needed a moment to absorb the news," he shares.

Challenges in Portraying Johnny's Journey

Taking on Johnny's emotional and physical journey presented its own set of challenges. "The hardest part was grasping how an ordinary individual can unwittingly become entangled in darker circumstances. I also underwent physical training since Johnny is a dancer, and we filmed demanding chase scenes over several days," he explains.

Collaboration with Director and Co-Actors

Gulati found working alongside director Sudip Sharma and his fellow actors to be a rewarding experience. "Sudip sir is observant and typically requires only two or three takes. Hearing him say 'fantastic' after a scene was incredibly gratifying, given his usual quiet demeanor. Mona ma’am and Varun sir were very collaborative and supportive, making every scene feel like a joint creative effort," he adds.

The Impact of OTT on Storytelling

Discussing the rise of OTT platforms, he notes, "OTT has created opportunities for more authentic narratives and relatable characters, allowing actors to delve into complex roles."

Training and Inspirations

Gulati attributes much of his craft to his education at the Stella Adler Studio, stating, "It taught me the importance of imagination and how to fully embody a character's world." He also acknowledges his theatre mentor, Kumud Mishra, for inspiring him with his commitment to the stage.

The Importance of Audience Connection

Reflecting on his career, Gulati emphasizes that forming meaningful connections with the audience is what drives him. "When viewers tell me that my performances resonate with them or reflect their experiences, it reinforces my purpose as an actor—not for fame, but for genuine human connection."